The Poems of Enheduanna

De: Priestess Enheduanna

Narrado por: Matthew Schmitz

Enheduanna, also known as En-hedu-ana or Enheduana, is widely regarded as the world's first known author and poet, as well as one of the earliest recorded female figures in history. She lived in ancient Mesopotamia during the 23rd century BCE, and held the esteemed position of high priestess in the city of Ur, which was a thriving center of Sumerian civilization.

Enheduanna's literary works and religious contributions have left an indelible mark on the cultural and literary landscape of ancient Mesopotamia. Enheduanna was born in the city of Ur, located in what is now southern Iraq, around 2285 BCE. She was the daughter of King Sargon of Akkad, who established the Akkadian Empire, and Queen Tashlultum. Being born into a royal family, Enheduanna enjoyed a privileged upbringing and received an exceptional education in literature, religion, and politics. At a young age, Enheduanna's intelligence, eloquence, and spiritual devotion were recognized, leading to her appointment as the high priestess of the moon god Nanna at the renowned temple in Ur. This position bestowed upon her significant religious authority and influence within the society, making her a powerful figure in both the political and spiritual realms.

Enheduanna's most significant contributions are her literary works, which include a collection of hymns, poems, and prayers dedicated to various deities. These compositions were written in the Sumerian language, the oldest known written language in human history. Through her writings, Enheduanna expressed her deep reverence for the gods and sought to establish a personal connection between the divine and humanity. One of Enheduanna's most renowned works is "The Exaltation of Inanna," a composition that pays homage to the goddess Inanna, the Sumerian deity of love, beauty, fertility, and war. In this epic poem, Enheduanna beautifully portrays the multifaceted nature of Inanna and her significance in the pantheon of gods.

Her lyrical verses and vivid imagery have captivated listeners throughout the centuries. Enheduanna's writings were not only expressions of religious devotion, but also political tools. She used her literary skills to reinforce the legitimacy of her father's reign and to assert her own authority as a high priestess. Her works were widely circulated and revered, ensuring her enduring legacy as a gifted poet and scholar.

©2023 Matthew Schmitz (P)2023 Matthew Schmitz

Important historical poet

I love that her poems are available. She is a remarkable creative force in literary history. But it would have had so much more integrity for a female voice to read this amazing woman's work!